The harsh reality that Rangers fans face with John Souttar as Ibrox faith starts to dwindle
Rangers need to hope that their decision to hand John Souttar a fresh deal at Ibrox doesn’t come back to bite them.
But the reality is that’s looking to be the case right now. The Bears drew 2-2 with Celtic on Sunday in an all-important Old Firm clash in the Scottish Premiership, where the Hoops snatched a point.
Youssef Chermiti’s brace seemed to have Gers in pole position to wrap up the win, but a defensive collapse undid all of Danny Rohl’s masterplan.
Souttar, especially, was at the heart of this, as the centre-back has come under fire for his positioning, which let Daizen Maeda get his header off that eventually resulted in a penalty for Celtic.
That’s just one lapse of concentration, though, as the 29-year-old’s growing collection of mistakes is causing worry at Ibrox.
Big chance John Souttar could be Rangers captain next season
James Tavernier’s deal with Rangers expires at the end of the season, and there is a growing feeling around Ibrox that the club captain will depart in the summer.
The long-serving right-back has been a role model for many players and those who are looking to follow in his footsteps to captain the Bears in the future.
Souttar has captained Gers on more than one occasion this campaign, and could be next in line to receive the armband if Tavernier does leave.
- Souttar captained Gers in the 3-1 over Celtic earliet this year
- He also wore the armband in Champions League qualification games
The problem with that is, it would then be unlikely for Souttar to be replaced by a higher-quality defender in the summer, despite his extended contract.
The Scot’s deal at Rangers now runs until May of 2027, but that doesn’t mean he should be exempt from the bench, especially if it’s deserved.
The truth is, Rohl needs to improve Souttar, and although the centre-half may offer decent depth, he’s simply not enough for the Bears and their ambitions.
- Read more: Dujon Sterling penalty incident took shine off Rangers vs Celtic performance – here’s why
What did Souttar say after Celtic game?
Souttar has racked up 129 appearances for the Bears, and Rohl needs the defender to step up when it matters more than ever now.
Speaking to the media after the game, the centre-back gave his thoughts on why Rangers were pegged back for a draw.
Souttar said: “We gave them too much respect and space between the lines, and that’s what happens, they get scruffy goals.
“When you give teams time and time to cross, there’s going to be times where they get ricochets and penalties.”
The truth is, he should have done better to clear the crosses; that’s his job. There’s still time left in the season for change, and Souttar certainly needs to up his game.
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